Wedding Planning Q & A

Q: Are there benefits to wearing a well-tailored suit instead of a tuxedo?

A: “If you don’t have the budget to buy a bespoke (custom-tailored) suit, consider the option of renting a hybrid between a tux and a suit called ‘tuit,’ (pronounced ‘toot’) says Elizabeth Dirom of Madeleine’s Daughter in Portsmouth, NH. “It has a less formal look – no big satin stripe down the pant leg or wide satin lapel – but it sets you and your groomsmen apart from your guests, and brings an element of formality to the wedding party.

“Usually a ‘tuit’ is three pieces,” Elizabeth adds, “and instead of the satin stripe there’s a contrasting fabric welt. Also, while rental suits are only available in four colors – black, gray, Windsor gray, and navy – ‘tuits’ come in a variety of color options including dark cobalt and even plaids. However, if you still opt for a suit, rental suits now have a trimmer fit, in response to what we’ve seen guys request over the years. If you want to add some sort of color, it’s usually in the pocket square.”

Q: What are some etiquette “do’s and don’ts” for grooms? Any other wedding-day advice?

A: It goes without saying that you should watch how much you drink and not invite your ex to the wedding. But Jenny Williamson of Jenny’s Wedding Cakes in Amesbury, MA, also suggests that no groom smash wedding cake into his bride’s face. “That’s pretty much a thing of the past,” she says, “and with good reason. Think of all the time and effort that went into the bride’s makeup. And why would you want to risk messing up the bride’s dress?”

Heidi Hamblett of Flowers by Leslie in Portsmouth has one last word of advice for grooms. “Be sure you take care of the general ‘manscaping,’ keeping things clean and groomed. This is your special day, and you want to do everything you can to impress your bride.”

Remember, your bride is undoubtedly putting a lot of effort into your wedding day. Here’s your chance to show just how much you love her by being as polished and wedding-ready as you can be.